Which attachment style is marked by skepticism about trying new things and belief that others can't be trusted?

Which attachment style is marked by skepticism about trying new things and belief that others can't be trusted?

• A. Anxious-Resistant Attachment
• B. Secure Attachment
• C. Anxious-Avoidant Attachment
• D. Disorganized-Disoriented Attachment

Answer: (A)

Attachment styles show how a child trusts others and approaches new experiences based on how reliably caregivers respond. When caregiving is inconsistent, a child often becomes anxious about trying new things and skeptical that others will be there to meet needs. This combination—hesitation to explore and doubt about whether others can be trusted—fits Anxious-Resistant (ambivalent) attachment. These children may cling and seek comfort but also resist soothing, reflecting insecurity about the caregiver’s availability. In contrast, secure attachment would involve confident exploration and trust in the caregiver; anxious-avoidant attachment tends to involve pulling away from closeness and not relying on others; and disorganized-disoriented attachment shows chaotic, contradictory behaviors rather than a consistent pattern of doubt about others and reluctance to try new things.

Attachment styles show how a child trusts others and approaches new experiences based on how reliably caregivers respond. When caregiving is inconsistent, a child often becomes anxious about trying new things and skeptical that others will be there to meet needs. This combination—hesitation to explore and doubt about whether others can be trusted—fits Anxious-Resistant (ambivalent) attachment. These children may cling and seek comfort but also resist soothing, reflecting insecurity about the caregiver’s availability. In contrast, secure attachment would involve confident exploration and trust in the caregiver; anxious-avoidant attachment tends to involve pulling away from closeness and not relying on others; and disorganized-disoriented attachment shows chaotic, contradictory behaviors rather than a consistent pattern of doubt about others and reluctance to try new things.